oldest city Arkansas

Batesville, Arkansas: A Historic Gateway to the Ozark Foothills

A River Town with Deep Roots

Nestled along the banks of the White River in north-central Arkansas, Batesville serves as the historic and economic hub of Independence County. Founded in 1821, it holds the distinction of being the oldest existing city in Arkansas, predating statehood by fifteen years. Its location was no accident; the White River provided a vital transportation corridor for early settlers and commerce, shaping the community's destiny.